2018 Porsche Cayenne

Our spy photographers caught up with the 2018 Porsche Cayenne undergoing cold weather testing. Except for the spy shots, details of the model are still scanty but we understand that the Cayenne will be underpinned by a new platform.

The platform is a shorter version of the MLB SUV platform from the Volkswagen Group. This same platform underpins the 2017 Audi A7. The new platform will result in a significant reduction in the model’s curb weight since it uses lightweight materials including high-strength steel, aluminum and carbon fiber. The model weight will reduce by 220 pounds. Read along for more information:

2018 Porsche Cayenne Exterior

As of now, all we have seen is a testing mule of the 2018 Cayenne disguised in the current model’s “slacks”. We understand that the Cayenne will borrow most of its exterior styling cues from the Macan Crossover and the upcoming Panamera Sport Turismo. From the mule, we can tell that the grille will be slightly revised and larger. The headlights will also be modified. The front air vents shape is also altered.

From the mule, we could see that the area occupied by fog lights in the previous models has been replaced with new corner air vents. The fog lights on the other hand have been fitted between the corner air vents and the headlights. The hood will remain unchanged.

On the sides, the Cayenne also comes largely unchanged. It sports the same mild body lines that run below the waistline while the side mirrors look longer.

At the back, the rear will be modified slightly. The taillights of the mule were hidden suggesting a new design. The dual exhaust tips will remain but the rear diffuser will be slightly altered.

2018 Porsche Cayenne Interior

The spy shots our photographers have managed as of now don’t reveal the interior styling of the Cayenne. However, according to rumors, the cabin will borrow numerous cues from the next-gen Panamera whose rendering we have already seen. The cabin will be cleaner and uncluttered with less buttons and controls on the center console and steering wheel. Most controls will be via a large touch-screen interface.

A new instrument cluster is likely. The cabin will definitely feature an improved infotainment system and connectivity features. The SUV will also feature a full package of driving aids to improve its safety offering. Some of the driving aids will feature semi-autonomous features. For the seats, expect them to be upholstered with the best leather in the market. The seats will also be heated and ventilated. Expect the front seats to be power adjusted and offer lumbar support.

Other excellent features will include a tri-zone automatic climate control system and a premium sound system.

We will be able to give a better review of the interior when we get more information so make sure to check back for more information.

Engine Specs and performance

Power-trains are likely to remain unchanged since the outgoing model had received engine updates. Therefore, the base model will still feature a 3.6 L V-6 gasoline engine which is capable of producing 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine enables the model to move from 0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds and with a top speed of 142 mph.

The Cayenne S will also feature the 3.6 L engine but a tweaked version which produces 420 hp. This engine powers the Cayenne S to accelerate to 60 mph from standstill in 5.2 seconds and attain a top speed of 161 mph. The Cayenne GTS also features a 3.6 L engine which is further tuned to produce 440 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. The engine propels the model to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 163 mph.

If you feel that those engines are not powerful enough, you can opt for the more potent 4.8 L V-8 engine on the Turbo S. This engine produces a whopping 520 hp and accelerates from 0-60 mph in only 4.2 seconds. The Turbo S has a top speed of 173 mph.

If you are more environment conscious, opt for the Cayenne S E-Hybrid which is powered by a supercharged 3.0 L V-8 engine and an electric motor. The combination produces 416 hp. For those who like diesel powered models, don’t worry as Porsche offers the Cayenne with a 3.0 L diesel engine which is capable of producing 240 hp. However, this is the slowest model after the base 3.6 L V-6 hitting 60 mph from standstill in a slow 7.2 seconds. It has a top speed of 135 mph.

Due to the new platform which is lighter, the above performance numbers could improve slightly. Fuel economy will also improve slightly due to the lighter platform.

Price and release date

The Porsche Cayenne 2018 is still a long way from its on-sale date. It is therefore hard to tell its price at this moment. However, I believe the price will increase slightly to reflect the new changes.

The base model which currently starts at $ 58,300 could attract as much as $ 60,000 while the top Cayenne Turbo S could cost as much as $160,000 up from the current MSRP of $157,300. The hybrid model which starts at $ 77,200 could start at around $80,000. The model will be released in late 2017 as a 2018 model car.

Competition

The biggest rival to the new 2018 Porsche Cayenne is the BMW X5 which matches the Cayenne in size and luxury offerings. The Mercedes GLS SUV is also a worthy competitor.